You have probably heard some strange things about periods; do not exercise, do not wash your hair, do not touch anything or you will ruin it, stay away from cooking or your period blood is dirty. None of that is true.

Let us clear this up some period myths together.

Myth 1: You Cannot Exercise On Your Period

The lie: Moving your body will make cramps worse or cause damage.

The truth: Exercise actually helps. Moving your body releases endorphins. Those are natural chemicals that reduce pain. A short walk, gentle stretching or light dancing can ease cramps faster than sitting still.

Athletes do not stop training during their periods. Neither should you.

Myth 2: Period Blood Is Dirty

The lie: Menstrual blood is different from regular blood. It carries toxins or is somehow unclean.

The truth: Period blood is just blood mixed with tissue from your uterus. It is no different from blood from a cut on your finger. Your body is not getting rid of toxins. It is shedding a lining it built earlier in your cycle.

There is nothing dirty or shameful about it.

Myth 3: You Cannot Bathe Or Wash Your Hair During Your Period

The lie: Water will make your period stop or cause illness.

The truth: Washing is good for you. Warm water helps relax your muscles and reduce cramps. Soap and water remove bacteria and keep you fresh. You can take a shower or a bath anytime during your period.

Just do not use soap inside your vagina. That area cleans itself. Soap can cause irritation.

Myth 4: Your Period Must Come Exactly Every 28 Days

The lie: If your cycle is shorter or longer something is wrong.

The truth: Cycles vary from person to person and month to month. A normal cycle is anywhere from 21 to 35 days. Some people have longer cycles. Some have shorter ones.

During the first year or two after your first period irregular cycles are extremely common. You might skip a month. You might have two periods close together. You might not know when the next one will come.

This is normal. Your body is still learning how to run its new system.

Myth 5: You Should Not Swim During Your Period

The lie: Blood will leak out in the water and attract sharks.

The truth: The first part is not true. The second part is ridiculous. Water pressure actually slows or stops menstrual flow while you are submerged. Plus most swimmers use tampons or menstrual cups which keep everything contained.

Swim freely. The sharks are not interested.

Myth 6: Period Pain Is Just Something You Have To Endure

The lie: Cramps are normal so you should just suffer through them.

The truth: Mild discomfort is normal. Pain that stops you from going to school or participating in activities is not. You can take pain relievers like ibuprofen. You can use a hot water bottle on your belly. You can talk to a doctor if the pain is severe.

You do not have to suffer silently.

What To Do When Someone Spreads A Myth

Say "that is actually not true" calmly. Share what you have learned. If they insist on believing the myth you do not have to argue. Just know the truth for yourself.

Your body is not mysterious or shameful. It is doing exactly what it was built to do.